Arunachal Pradesh took a significant leap in strengthening its justice delivery system with the inauguration of the Gauhati High Court’s Itanagar Permanent Bench building on Sunday. Chief Minister Pema Khandu hailed the development as a “historic” milestone that promises faster and more efficient access to justice for the state’s citizens.
Speaking at the inauguration, Khandu recalled the modest state of the judiciary less than a decade ago. “Until 2016, we had only two courts. Today, there are 33 functional district and session courts, and the Cabinet has approved eight more. Additionally, 463 new posts have been created at the district level,” he said. The new facility, constructed at a cost of ₹250 crore, is equipped with modern infrastructure aimed at streamlining judicial processes. Khandu credited the judges of the Gauhati High Court for their role in completing the project, despite pandemic-related delays. The foundation stone was laid on August 12, 2018, but COVID-19 disruptions slowed its progress. A special monitoring committee was later formed to expedite completion.
Highlighting the reforms under the BJP-led NDA government, the Chief Minister said the state is committed to strengthening the judiciary. He also outlined a long-term vision for an independent High Court in Arunachal Pradesh, citing the growing caseload. “We have already identified land for the future court building,” he said.
